Master's Program Learning Aims

The Master of Science, Thesis Track program prepares students to continue their education in a doctoral degree program (Ph.D. or Psy.D.). The Master of Science, Practitioner Track program prepares students to begin employment in psychology under the supervision of a doctoral-level licensed psychologist, or to continue their education leading to the Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) or a doctoral degree (Psy.D. or Ph.D.). The Certificate of Advanced Study (C.A.S.) provides students possessing a master's degree in psychology or an allied field advanced training in specialized areas of clinical or counseling psychology. The Masters Plus program is set up for students who already have their masters degree in psychology and need the additional course work to sit for the State licensure exam.

Learning Aims for Master’s Programs

Goal 1: Ethical Conduct Students will conduct themselves in accordance with the American Psychological Association Ethics Code in all interactions and activities in their roles as graduate students and will demonstrate the effective application of ethical decision-making processes when confronted with ethical dilemmas.

Goal 2: Cultural Diversity Students will demonstrate sensitivity to cultural diversity, to include all aspects of diversity included in Principle E of the American Psychological Association Ethics Code, by behaving inclusively, demonstrating receptivity to feedback, and fostering collaboration based on awareness of privilege in all roles (e.g., peer, clinician, supervisee, assessor, researcher) and in all settings (e.g., classroom, externship site, lab) in which students represent Loyola University Maryland.

Goal 3: Professional and Personal Demeanor Students will display professional conduct to include written and verbal communications, attire, and interactions appropriate to all settings where students represent Loyola University Maryland aligned with departmental and agency policy.

Goal 4: Research and Scholarship Students will apply the scientific approach to evaluate psychological information and to use this information in professional settings(Practitioner and Thesis Tracks). Students will conduct scientific studies to generate new knowledge and will communicate their findings effectively (Thesis Track).

Goal 5: Appraisal and Assessment Students will act in accordance with professional standards in the selection, use, scoring, and interpretation of appraisal and assessment measures appropriate to each client’s referral question. Students will use this information to inform case conceptualization and diagnosis and effectively communicate these findings to clients and referral sources.

Goal 6: Treatment and Intervention Students will demonstrate the ability to develop and implement evidence–based treatment and intervention plans with groups and individuals from a diverse society.

Goal 7: Supervision Students will actively participate in and effectively utilize supervision while engaged in professional activities. Students will seek out additional supervision when warranted and will be receptive to feedback from supervisors. Students will be aware of and receive/provide supervision in accordance with the standards of their profession’s code of ethics and with sensitivity to individual differences.

Learning Aims for Master’s Plus and CAS Programs

Goal 1: Students will effectively conceptualize psychological issues and implement intervention strategies in resolving a problem or enhancing the development of individuals or groups.

Goal 2: Students will appreciate and understand a variety of professional assessment strategies that they may effectively use in their clinical or counseling practice.

Goal 3: Students will exhibit ethical behavior in a professional setting in keeping with the Ignatian tradition of care for the person, i.e. cura personalis.

Goal 4: Students will advance their knowledge of and skills with the areas of psychological assessment, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional and behavior problems, as dictated by their individual professional needs.